DERBY -- The shooting death of Javon Zimmerman, 22, early Saturday was a "targeted act of violence," said police Lt. Justin Stanko.

Stanko said Monday the Police Department has a "strong suspect," but police are surprised that very few people, even family members, have come forward with information.

The department has worked around the clock since the 2 a.m. shooting in the parking lot of RJ's Cafe at 148 Elizabeth St., he said.

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"People know what happened. They saw it. They have an obligation to come forward. This was 100 percent not random. There was a clear motive," Stanko added.

It appears a dispute with a family member was involved, he said, but would not elaborate.

He said police are frustrated because there were 50 people at the bar during the shooting and only a few have contacted police.

"The Police Department is doing everything possible to solve this crime, but we need anyone who knows anything to come forward," he said.

The Police Department is leading the investigation, with assistance from the Connecticut State Police Major Crime Squad and the Ansonia Police Department.

A makeshift memorial was set up at the shooting location. There are numerous candles and tea lights, balloons that read 'I Love You" along with framed family photos. A woman passing the memorial said, "This is so sad for his family and the other person's family,"

Stanko said Zimmerman was shot with a small caliber handgun. Police are awaiting results of a Monday autopsy.

In December 2010, Zimmerman was shot in the abdomen and hospitalized. Ansonia Police Lt. Andrew Cota said Monday no arrest was ever made. Zimmerman refused to cooperate in the investigation.

According to the state judicial website, Zimmerman had a lengthy arrest history.

He was arrested in Seymour and sentenced to 10 days in jail in 2010 for possession of a controlled substance. He pleaded guilty to possessing less than 4 ounces of marijuana.

In 2009, he pleaded guilty on charges of cruelty to animals. In 2008, Zimmerman pleaded guilty to second-degree breach of peace in Ansonia. He was also arrested in Ansonia and pleaded guilty to first-degree criminal trespass.

Stanko said police are investigating Zimmerman's homicide vigorously.

The Derby police have a confidential tip line that goes directly to an investigator working on the case. Callers can remain anonymous. The number is 203-619-1906.